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Minnesota Gets Its First Pet-Friendly College Campus

Britt
by Britt
Published:  January 30th, 2026
Photo credit: Fusso_pics / Shutterstock.com

For many of us, the bond we share with our pets is truly special. They are our companions, confidants, therapists, playmates, emotional anchors, and daily entertainment. Studies have even shown that living with a pet benefits our physical and mental health.  However, for young adults heading off to college, that bond has historically been severed at the dormitory door. That is officially changing in Minnesota.


Gustavus Adolphus College, a private liberal arts college in St. Peter, recently announced a landmark shift in their campus policy. Starting this fall, Gustavus will become the first pet-friendly campus in the state, launching a pilot program that allows students to bring their dogs and cats to live with them in a designated residence hall.


This move comes on the heels of a growing understanding of the “human-animal bond” in our modern society.

For students navigating the high-pressure environment of college life, having a beloved pet with them can lower cortisol levels, reduce feelings of loneliness, help open doors to new social interactions and relationships, and encourage a more consistent daily routine.


The program is currently limited to students in their second year or beyond who are in good academic standing. To prevent potential challenges before they arise, the college has established specific criteria that reflect the high standards of responsible pet parenting and rules to ensure pets fit well into the college lifestyle.


  • Size and Behavior: Dogs must weigh 40 pounds or less, be fully housebroken, and have no history of aggression.
  • Health and Wellness: Both cats and dogs must be at least one year old, spayed or neutered, and current on all vaccinations.
  • Stability: To ensure the pet is well-adjusted, the college requires proof that the animal has lived with the student or their family for at least six months prior to moving onto campus.


Financial responsibilities include a $300 annual pet fee and a $200 refundable deposit. Additionally, students must identify an emergency caretaker within 350 miles of campus, ensuring the animal has a safety net if the student is ever unable to care for them.


For parents of college-bound students, this policy change represents a significant shift in the way we integrate pets into our lives. Beyond emotional comfort, living with a pet teaches students a high level of responsibility. Managing a pet’s schedule alongside a demanding course load requires exceptional time management and a dedication to the health and happiness of another living being.


By requiring veterinary records and health certifications, the college reinforces the importance of preventive care. This helps spark conversations and spread awareness about this important topic.


Gustavus Adolphus plans to evaluate the program over the next three years to determine its long-term viability.

As pet parents, we know that our animals aren’t just “extras” in our lives. They are family. Seeing higher education institutions recognize this value is a promising step toward a society that fully embraces the benefits of our furry companions in every stage of life.


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Britt
Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 3 cats – Pippen, Jinx, and Theia. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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